Kenya: 6 songs for Madaraka Day

For many, all it means is barbecues, drinks and a day off work. For others, it's a time to reflect on the journey Kenya has taken since independence in 1963. Whichever way you choose to spend it, you're going to need some good Kenyan music.

Here are the songs that symbolise the Kenyan liberation.

Daudi Kabaka – ‘Harambee Harambee’

Daudi Kabaka’s classic reminds Kenyans of the opportunities that exist for all in the country. It calls on every single Kenyan to support the building of a united nation.  

Eric Wainaina – ‘Daima’

This song translates to ‘forever Kenyan’. If you ever need to know the meaning of the four colours on the Kenyan flag, then this is the song to listen to. Black is for the people, red is for the blood that was spilt during the struggle for independence, green is for the land and white is for peace.

Kakai Kilonzo – 'Kenya Nchi Yangu'

The song’s title translates to ‘Kenya my country’. It is a loyalty pledge to never abandon Kenya and paints a picture of the political and social milestones that the country has reached since independence. The singer says that Kenya is both his father and mother.

Rufftone – ‘Mungu Baba’

The song title translates to ‘Dear God’ and was released alongside the General Service Unit, a section of the Kenya National Police Service. If you are familiar with Kenya’s history with general elections, then you'd know that every election since 2007 has been marred by violence. The song was released a month before the 2013 elections to promote peace among Kenyans. 

Thomas Wasonga Ogola – ‘Tushangilie Kenya’

In ‘Tushangilie Kenya’ (Let’s Celebrate Kenya), Ogola calls on every Kenyan to love their country and work towards the preservation of peace, love and unity for all. He says that if you love Kenya you should not instigate violence.

Roger Whittaker – ‘My Land is Kenya’

Roger Whittaker was born in Kenya in 1936 of British parents. He left the country in 1953 and returned 20 years later to record the A Musical Safari album, which includes ‘My Land is Kenya’. This song reminds Kenyans of all the diverse and beautiful landscapes the country has to offer. The Kenyan-British singer sparks the imagination and conjures Kenya's wonderful imagery.